Taoiseach Micheal Martin has defended Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky after his comments on Ireland’s efforts to assist his country.
The brave leader issued an impassioned plea to the European Union on Thursday – but did appear to hit out at some members for not doing enough to support his country in their bid for membership.
Mr Zelensky then listed off which nations he believed supported Ukraine’s bid to join the bloc, saying: “Italy – thank you for your support. Spain – we’ll find common ground. Belgium – we will find arguments. Austria, together with Ukrainians, it is an opportunity for you. I’m sure of it. Ireland – well, almost.”
The comments caused a bit of a debate after the plea.
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But Mr Martin said that people were “reading too much into it”.
The Taoiseach is currently in Brussels attending an EU leaders summit about the invasion.
When asked whether Ireland had been “singled out” by Zelensky, the Taoiseach responded: “That wouldn’t have been my read of it.
“He was actually talking in terms of the European perspective.
“I wouldn’t have taken the same slant that some may be taking from it. I spoke to him last week and he was very strongly in praise of the Irish contribution, both from a humanitarian perspective and also in terms of our clear support for Ukraine’s application to join the European Union.
“So I’m not going to surmise in terms of whatever particular take you would take from the use of the word almost or practically – and I wouldn’t overstate that, to be frank.
“I think that’s reading too much into it if I’m honest. Obviously we’re a militarily neutral country, but we explained that we facilitated the EU peace facility which has been of enormous support to the Ukrainian people. So I wouldn’t overstate it, quite frankly.”
Mr Zelensky is set to address the Oireachtas next month, which follows similar addresses to the House of Commons in the UK and the Senate in Washington DC. Mr Zelensky offered no further reasons for his “Ireland, well, almost,” comment, but it is seen as commentary on our refusal to provide weapons.
The Ukrainian Embassy last night said Ireland is “literally at the forefront of European countries” when it comes to providing “overwhelming and practical support” for its people.
Foreign Affairs Minister Dmytro Kuleba said: “Undoubtedly, Ireland is at the forefront within the EU and beyond providing essential support for Ukraine in all possible ways.” Both President Zelensky and Prime Minister Shmygal are also “unequivocal and clear” on this, according to RTE News.
The embassy said: “We would like to pay special tribute to the people of Ireland for their huge response, generosity, hospitality and willingness to grant protection for the Ukrainians.”
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READ MORE: Taoiseach defends Ukraine President Volodymr Zelensky after comments about Ireland
